UNLEASHING FLAVOR WITH 3 EASY GARLIC PREPARATION TECHNIQUES

Garlic, the aromatic and flavorful superstar of the culinary world, has the power to transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary delights. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice home cook, understanding how to leverage the magic of garlic can make a world of difference in your recipes. In this guide, we’ll delve into the three essential methods of incorporating garlic into your dishes, each offering distinct flavors and nuances. From the bold intensity of pressed garlic to the mellow elegance of sliced garlic and the delightful infusion of grated garlic, we’ve got you covered. But first, a word of caution: steer clear of the jarred impostor that is jarlic, for nothing can replace the unparalleled taste of fresh garlic.

Let’s get one thing straight right off the bat: jarlic, or jarred garlic, is a culinary compromise you’ll want to avoid. While convenience might lure you in, the truth is that jarlic lacks the authentic flavor of its fresh counterpart. Pasteurization robs it of its true essence, leaving behind a mere shadow of what garlic should be. Worse yet, if the jarlic begins to oxidize, it can infuse an off-putting flavor into your dishes, disrupting the harmony you strive to achieve.Take a glance at the jarlic label, and you might find more than just garlic listed. Stabilizers and additives often make an appearance, raising eyebrows and concerns about what you’re truly consuming. But let’s not dwell on the negatives – instead, let’s focus on the positives of fresh garlic.

Beyond its culinary prowess, garlic boasts an impressive nutritional profile. Low in calories and high in vitamins C and B6, as well as manganese, garlic’s contributions to your well-being extend beyond flavor. This humble bulb even plays a role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes. By lowering high blood pressure and regulating cholesterol levels – including the notorious LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol – garlic demonstrates its multifaceted benefits.

Now that we’ve firmly established the supremacy of fresh garlic, let’s explore the three easy techniques that can elevate your dishes to new heights: pressing, slicing, and grating.

Picture this: you’re in the middle of preparing a recipe that calls for minced garlic. Your hands are clean, and your cutting board is ready. But wait – here’s where the magic of a Garlic Press comes into play. With a garlic press, you can enjoy the intense flavor of fresh garlic without the laborious process of mincing, and without your hands bearing the strong garlic scent for hours. The secret lies in the garlic press’s ability to extract not just the flesh but also the precious garlic juice, intensifying the flavor in your dish.

When you desire a more delicate and subtle garlic presence in your dishes, turn to the art of slicing garlic. A Garlic Slicer is your tool of choice here. Begin by peeling the garlic – a task made simpler with a Garlic Peeler – and then let the slicer work its magic. Sliced garlic is perfect for infusing soups and other dishes where a hint of garlic is all you need. For those feeling adventurous, consider the technique of slow-frying the garlic slices in oil. This process mellows out the flavor, giving your salads and other dishes an added layer of depth.

Last but not least, enter the world of grated garlic, a technique that provides a burst of intense garlic flavor. A zester or microplane is your tool of choice for this method. Grated garlic is the go-to option when your recipe doesn’t involve cooking the garlic, such as in bruschetta or uncooked dips. By grating the garlic, you create a smooth paste that blends harmoniously with the other ingredients, almost melting into them. This technique is a surefire way to infuse your dishes with an elegant and nuanced garlic essence.

With these three easy techniques – pressing, slicing, and grating – at your disposal, you’re equipped to harness the full potential of garlic in your culinary creations. Say goodbye to jarlic and embrace the world of fresh garlic, where the possibilities are as endless as the flavors you can create. From robust intensity to subtle elegance, let garlic be your culinary ally, elevating your dishes to unparalleled heights. So go forth, experiment, and savor the aromatic wonders that garlic brings to your kitchen. Enjoy your garlic-filled journey!

Grab your garlic essentials HERE!

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Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. Colleen Finley is an independent advanced director for Pampered Chef. She earns a commission by linking to products she uses and trusts. If you purchase a product through her website link, your cost will be the same, and Colleen will automatically receive a small commission. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps us enrich lives, one meal and one memory at a time!

Everything on this site, recipes and photos belong to the author and any reprints are only by permission of the author.

Ultimate Chicken Club Salad (GF/DF)

Today, I’ve got a delightful treat for you that pays homage to a beloved American classic – the Club Sandwich. With its origins tracing back to the Union Club of New York City and documented as far back as 1889, the club sandwich has been a staple in the culinary world. I’m shaking things up a bit by deconstructing this iconic sandwich and turning it into a healthier, more vibrant version. Trust me, you won’t miss the bread when you taste this incredible Ultimate Chicken Club Salad!

The journey of the club sandwich takes us back to the late 19th century. The earliest known reference to this sandwich appeared in The Evening World on November 18, 1889, and guess what? It included a rudimentary recipe. This classic has stood the test of time, evolving and adapting over the years. From the original triple-decker structure to various regional and cultural variations, the club sandwich has made its mark on menus across the globe. Its simplicity, yet satisfying combination of flavors, makes it a true American culinary gem.

Let’s talk about the star of the show – my healthier Ultimate Chicken Club Salad. For those who adore the flavors of the club sandwich but are conscious of their dietary choices, this recipe is a game-changer. We’re ditching the bread without sacrificing any of the scrumptious layers that make the club sandwich so irresistible.

If you’re a die-hard bread lover, fear not! You can add a creative touch by tossing in some homemade croutons or opting for your favorite gluten-free bread alternative. The croutons not only add a satisfying crunch but also pay homage to the original sandwich’s base.

To start, let’s round up our fresh and flavorful ingredients. You have the freedom to choose your preferred type of chicken for this salad – whether it’s tender grilled chicken, juicy rotisserie chicken, or a clever repurposing of last night’s leftovers. The star ingredient, bacon, is the real show stopper here. As soon as that irresistible aroma starts wafting through your kitchen, you’ll know you’re in for a treat.

We’re layering the components of the classic club sandwich in a delightful, deconstructed manner. Imagine a bed of fresh, crisp lettuce as the canvas. On this canvas, artfully arrange your shredded chicken, a generous sprinkling of diced tomatoes for that burst of juiciness, and slices of red onion for color and spiciness. And, of course, let’s not forget the star – the crispy bacon. Carefully crumble or chop it into bite-sized pieces and scatter it over the salad. To tie all these flavors together, you’ll need a dressing that complements and enhances each ingredient. Of courseI have you covered… the dressing not only harmonizes the flavors but also adds a delightful pop to each bite.

And there you have it… my take on the iconic club sandwich tossed into my Ultimate Chicken Club Sala! A fusion of history and innovation, flavors and health-conscious choices, this dish is a testament to the evolution of our culinary landscape. So, the next time you find yourself craving the classic club sandwich, consider giving this reimagined version a whirl. Your taste buds will thank you, and your body will appreciate the healthier twist.

Feel free to get creative and adapt this recipe to your preferences. After all, that’s the beauty of cooking – it’s an art that evolves and takes on new dimensions with each person who enters the kitchen. Enjoy the deliciousness, celebrate the history, and embrace the healthier choices without compromising on taste.

Enjoy!

Ultimate Chicken Club Salad

Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: bacon, chicken, classic, Dairy Free, easy, fresh, Gluten Free, lettuce, summer
Servings: 8
Calories: 363kcal
Taking the flavors of the classic chicken club sandwich and putting them into a healthier version!
Print Recipe

Ingredients

  • ½ pound meaty bacon
  • 4 cups warm shredded chicken
  • ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, pressed
  • 1 teaspoon onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons dried parsley
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • salt and pepper
  • 6 mixed grape tomatoes, cut into wedges
  • 3 large heads of romaine, chopped
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup basil leaves, torn
  • 1 cup flat parsley leaves, coarsely chopped

Instructions

  • Heat the oven to 400°F. 
  • Bake bacon on slotted pan or wire rack-lined or parchment-lined baking sheet until very crisp, about 20 minutes. Remove from the oven, drain and chop into 1-inch pieces.
  • Place the vinegar, oil, garlic, onion, thyme, parsley, sugar, dijon and salt and pepper in a salad dressing container or jar with lid, cover and shake to mix.
  • Wedge the tomatoes. Chop the lettuce. Thinly slice the onions. Chop the basil and parsley.
  • Add tomatoes, bacon, lettuce, onions, herbs and chicken to large salad bowl and top with dressing. Combine, season with salt and pepper and serve.

Notes

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If you make this recipe, please be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made absolutely makes my day!
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Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. Colleen Finley is an independent advanced director for Pampered Chef. She earns a commission by linking to products she uses and trusts. If you purchase a product through her website link, your cost will be the same, and Colleen will automatically receive a small commission. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps us enrich lives, one meal and one memory at a time!
Everything on this site, recipes and photos belong to the author and any reprints are only by permission of the author.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 363kcal | Carbohydrates: 14.9g | Protein: 29.6g | Fat: 21.7g | Saturated Fat: 4.4g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 440mg | Potassium: 1047mg | Fiber: 1.7g | Sugar: 7.4g | Calcium: 32mg | Iron: 1mg

Why You Need Cut & Store Containers

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding ways to simplify our daily routines without compromising on quality has become an important goal. When it comes to food prep and storage, convenience and versatility are key. Enter Pampered Chef’s ingenious creation: the Cut & Store Containers. These revolutionary 2-in-1 kitchen storage companions are not just any containers – they are the ultimate solution for busy individuals seeking to elevate their snacking game. Let’s dive deep into the world of Cut & Store containers, exploring their features, benefits, and the myriad of ways they can enhance your on-the-go experience.

Pampered Chef’s Cut & Store containers are a true necessity for anyone who’s constantly on the move and refuses to compromise on the quality of their snacks. These containers effortlessly combine the functions of a storage container and a cutting board, creating a seamless snacking experience like never before. Imagine having a convenient solution that lets you cut, store, and transport your favorite snacks without the hassle of juggling multiple tools and containers.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, cheering from the soccer field sidelines, or embarking on a road trip, Cut & Store Containers are your trusty companions that will always have your back. These versatile containers are designed to cater to your needs no matter where you are. Need a quick and healthy bite during a long drive? Create a mini charcuterie board right inside the container and enjoy a gourmet treat on the go. The possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination.

Features That Set Cut & Store Containers Apart

  1. Cutting Board Lids: The standout feature of these containers is undoubtedly their lids that double as cutting boards. This innovative design eliminates the need for separate cutting boards, saving you time, space, and the hassle of cleaning multiple items. With the sturdy cutting board lids, you can easily chop up your fruits, vegetables, and other snack components directly into the container. No more worrying about balancing a cutting board on your lap while snacking at the park!
  2. Durable Design: Built with durability in mind, these containers are made to withstand the demands of your active lifestyle. The sturdy materials ensure that your food remains fresh and intact even during bumpy rides or crowded picnics.
  3. Space-Saving Stackability: Cluttered kitchen counters and fridge shelves are a thing of the past. The Cut & Store Containers are designed to stack neatly on top of each other, optimizing storage space in your kitchen. Say goodbye to the chaotic jumble of mismatched containers.
  4. Generous Capacity: Each container boasts a generous 4-cup capacity, providing ample space. Whether you’re packing sliced fruit, crunchy veggies, or a medley of cheeses and crackers, you’ll have plenty of room to create delightful combinations.
  5. Convenient Care: The Cut & Store Containers are designed to make your life easier, even when it comes to cleaning up. They are refrigerator, dishwasher, and freezer safe, allowing for quick and hassle-free maintenance.

To complete the set, consider adding a Kitchen Paring Knife to your order. This handy tool fits perfectly within the container, ensuring you have everything you need in one compact package. The paring knife is an essential companion for precise cutting and slicing.

In a world where convenience reigns supreme, Pampered Chef’s Cut & Store Containers emerge as a shining example of innovation that truly enhances our daily lives. These 2-in-1 containers effortlessly combine practicality, versatility, and durability, making them a must-have for anyone seeking to make their on-the-go lifestyle easier. From their cutting board lids to their space-saving design, every feature of these containers has been meticulously crafted to provide you with an unparalleled snacking experience. So, the next time you’re packing snacks for an adventure or a quick bite, reach for your trusty Cut & Store Containers – they’ll quickly become your go-to companions for all your snacking escapades.

Grab your Cut & Store Containers HERE!

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Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. Colleen Finley is an independent advanced director for Pampered Chef. She earns a commission by linking to products she uses and trusts. If you purchase a product through her website link, your cost will be the same, and Colleen will automatically receive a small commission. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps us enrich lives, one meal and one memory at a time!

Everything on this site, recipes and photos belong to the author and any reprints are only by permission of the author.

Seared Scallops with Garlic Sauce over Zoodles (GF)

Scallops need very little other than butter, salt and pepper to be amazing. But pour some delicious garlic butter over the top and let it soak down into the zoodles, well, that doesn’t hurt either!

I replaced pasta in this recipe with zoodles because they are healthier and cook faster. Plus, zucchini is packed with beneficial nutrients including Vitamins C and A, potassium, folate, and fiber. All contribute to a healthy heart by decreasing the risk of stroke, reducing high blood pressure, and lowering cholesterol. Garlic has been shown to improve immunity, stabilize blood sugar levels, and support heart and brain health. Scallops are low in cholesterol and saturated fats. So overall this is a meal you can feel good about and it’s pretty!

Seared Scallops with Garlic Sauce over Zoodles (GF)

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Gluten Free, Scallops, seafood, zoodles
Servings: 4
Calories: 277kcal
Cooked until golden brown and swimming in garlic sauce, these scallops are a quick dinner option perfect for a summer evening
Print Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons ghee
  • 6 garlic cloves, sliced
  • 2 large zucchini, spiralized
  • 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar
  • freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 fresh basil leaves, shredded
  • ¼ cup finely minced red bell pepper

Instructions

  • Melt the ghee in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook, swirling the pan occasionally and reducing the heat if the garlic browns too quickly, until the garlic is golden and the butter is foamy and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Transfer the garlic butter to a small bowl, scraping in any browned bits. Wipe out the skillet.
  • Place the zoodles in the skillet, season with salt and pepper and sauté 3 minutes until just tender. Transfer to a serving plate and keep warm. Wipe out the skillet.
  • Pat the scallops dry and season with salt. Heat the oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the scallops in the skillet, spacing evenly apart, and cook, undisturbed, swirling the skillet occasionally and adding more oil if needed, until well browned on the bottom, about 5 minutes. Turn the scallops over and cook just until golden on the other side and opaque in the middle, about 2 minutes longer. Place the scallops over the zoodles.
  • Stir the vinegar into the garlic butter and season with salt and pepper. Spoon over the scallops and top with fresh basil and red bell pepper.

Notes

SHOP THIS RECIPE BY CLICKING AN IMAGE BELOW:
 Garlic Peeler & Slicer Set  Veggie Spiralizer Stoneware Entertaining Set
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If you make this recipe, please be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made absolutely makes my day!
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FOLLOW ME HERE FOR MORE IDEAS:
    

Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. Colleen Finley is an independent advanced director for Pampered Chef. She earns a commission by linking to products she uses and trusts. If you purchase a product through her website link, your cost will be the same, and Colleen will automatically receive a small commission. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps us enrich lives, one meal and one memory at a time!
Everything on this site, recipes and photos belong to the author and any reprints are only by permission of the author.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 277kcal | Carbohydrates: 10.2g | Protein: 21.4g | Fat: 17.4g | Saturated Fat: 8.6g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 200mg | Potassium: 822mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3.2g | Calcium: 51mg | Iron: 1mg

Why You Need a Veggie Spiralizer

I knew the moment Pampered Chef debuted their version of the Veggie Spiralizer I would be in love. I already had one that I owned for a few years but what drew me to Pampered Chef’s is the fact that it’s vertically loaded vs. horizontally loaded. The one I had previously would wobble due the the weight of the vegetables. With Pampered Chef’s, there is no wobble and it’s very easy to use (and clean!)

The Veggie Spiralizer quickly makes fun, flavorful veggie and fruit “noodles” you can turn into healthy, satisfying meals. The handle makes it easier to spiralize food, a chute that keeps “noodles” from breaking, and the comb handle makes it easy to change blades. Make cucumber ribbons for a salad, sweet potato spaghetti, butternut squash fettuccine… there are endless options!

Plus, there are a bunch of recipes ready to go with your new kitchen toy! You can check out the ebook HERE.

When I began making the switch to spiralized vegetables, I didn’t go 100% vegetable all at once because I thought that would be too much of an immediate transition. So what I did was use equal parts yellow squash and pasta, usually spaghetti or thin spaghetti. That way the meals would have the same texture as pasta but add the boost of more vegetables.

Also, when I use zucchini or yellow squash, I don’t cook them very long. If the sauce I am using is hot, I will let the sauce do the work of cooking the vegetable noodles. If the sauce is cold, I will sauté the vegetable noodles for just about 2 minutes so they don’t get too soft. All other veggie will I cook according to the recipe directions.

Some of my favorite recipe resources for spiralized vegetables, in addition to my recipes of course, are Pampered Chef and Inspiralized.

If you’re ready to add the Veggie Spiralizer to your kitchen, you can grab it HERE!

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If you make this recipe, please be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made absolutely makes my day!


Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. Colleen Finley is an independent advanced director for Pampered Chef. She earns a commission by linking to products she uses and trusts. If you purchase a product through her website link, your cost will be the same, and Colleen will automatically receive a small commission. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps us enrich lives, one meal and one memory at a time!

Everything on this site, recipes and photos belong to the author and any reprints are only by permission of the author.

Squash & Green Beans with Romesco Sauce (GF/DF)

A few summers ago, when Bill and I vacationed in Martha’s Vineyard, we had some of the best meals we’ve ever eaten. Our first night we ate at The Covington, which was a recommendation of a local gentleman we met at lunch. On the specials menu they had an appetizer of squash and beans with a creamy romesco sauce. Bill thought it sounded weird but we ordered it anyway and we cleaned the plate! I was in heaven. I’ve been wanting to recreate it ever since and I think I’ve come pretty close!

This recipe can stand alone as an appetizer or be used as a side dish. It’s great for summer because you can use the vegetables are are becoming abundant in home gardens and farmers markets.

Bell peppers are great for gut health because of their fiber and folate, plus they are a great source of potassium and vitamin A. A cup of zucchini will also fulfill 26% of your daily vitamin C needs, 10% of your daily potassium needs and 8% of your daily magnesium needs and 13% of your daily folate needs, per the FDA. Green beans are a good source of protein and fiber, which helps lower cholesterol and they help fight inflammation.

Squash & Green Beans with Romesco Sauce

Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Keyword: appetizer, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, vegetables
Servings: 4
Calories: 291kcal
Use up some of your summer veggies from your garden or grab them from the store… either way this appetizer or side dish is certain to be the star of the show!
Print Recipe

Ingredients

  • Romesco Sauce:
  • ½ cup almonds
  • 1 12oz jar roasted red bell peppers, drained
  • ¼ cup tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 3 garlic cloves, pressed
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 8 ounces green beans, washed and trimmed
  • 2 small zucchini, cut in thirds, then into wedges
  • 2 small yellow squash, cut in thirds, then into wedges
  • 2 tablespoons chives, chopped

Instructions

  • In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the almonds for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and cool. Place the almonds in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the multi-use blade and pulse until coarsely chopped. Add the peppers, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, garlic, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, cayenne, black pepper and salt and blend until smooth. Remove the sauce to a bowl and stir in the olive oil. Set aside.
  • In a clean small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add one shallot and fry until golden brown, about 15 minutes. When golden, remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
  • Meanwhile, prepare a bowl of ice water and set aside. In a large saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the green beans and and cook until crisp-tender, 3-5 minutes. Drain and immediately plunge into the ice water.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet until the oil shimmers, about 3 minutes. Add the zucchini and squash and sauté 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  • To serve, place half of the romesco sauce on a serving plate. Top with the green beans, squash and shallot. Sprinkle with the fried shallot and chives. Dollop remaining romesco sauce around the edge of the plate.

Notes

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8.5  Flex+ Multi-Prep Set  4-qt. (3.8-L) Brilliance Nonstick Sauce Pan Entertaining Platter Set
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If you make this recipe, please be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made absolutely makes my day!
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FOLLOW ME HERE FOR MORE IDEAS:
    

Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. Colleen Finley is an independent advanced director for Pampered Chef. She earns a commission by linking to products she uses and trusts. If you purchase a product through her website link, your cost will be the same, and Colleen will automatically receive a small commission. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps us enrich lives, one meal and one memory at a time!
Everything on this site, recipes and photos belong to the author and any reprints are only by permission of the author.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 291kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 23.3g | Saturated Fat: 2.9g | Sodium: 327mg | Potassium: 860mg | Fiber: 6.3g | Sugar: 7.4g | Calcium: 95mg | Iron: 3mg